NOVEMBER 29. When little Michelle asked her mom, “Did St Francis really see the baby Jesus on that Christmas night so very long ago?”  she was talking about the Incarnation, or as we often say, “The Word was made flesh.’   We don’t use that kind of churchy, theological language when we talk to one another at home but that is our belief. Our life of faith in God is lived every single day, but in a more special way in the days leading up to Christmas and at Christmastime with Jesus, Mary and Joseph.

Michelle, then said to her mom, “That must have been amazing, like a miracle.  Nearly like when I wake up on Christmas morning and find that baby Jesus has arrived in our crib.”  Michelle’s mom told her, “St Francis saw Jesus in the crib and in everyone and everything.  We’re going to try to look for Jesus too this Advent as we get ready for Christmas.”

Mrs Adams was hoping that this Christmas would be unlike any other, just as the year 2020, taken up almost entirely with COVID-19, the coronavirus and its impacts on all aspects of life, had been like no other year.  Her study of the concept built into the 2020 family theme “The World – a Family of Families,” with all its many facets, had been a challenge as well as a source of enrichment and joy. She was hoping it would deepen the faith, love and joy for their family too.

At that time Jesus said to his disciples: ”Take heed, watch, pray for you do not know when the time will come.”  Mark 13:33.

Pope Francis:  Saint Francis is the example par excellence of care for the vulnerable and of an integral ecology lived out joyfully and authentically.  He was particularly concerned for God’s creation and for the poor and the outcast.  He loved all God’s creatures and was deeply loved for his joy. He lived in simplicity and in wonderful harmony with God. LS 10.   

For Reflection and Sharing. As family members share what you already know about St Francis and how he can relate to our lives today.  Get the full programme booklet from http://www.marfam.org.za